Neighbourhood: Little India

Location: On Gerrard Street East, between Coxwell Avenue and Greenwood Avenue. Transit: Take the Coxwell bus south from Coxwell subway station.

Little India is home to the Gerrard India Bazaar, North America’s largest South Asian ethnic market. Browse textile shops full of colourful silks to make the perfect sari, or buy vibrant ready-to-wear clothing at import clothing shops. Find bargains on exotic home furnishings, jewellery and art from South Asia. There’s plenty to keep you busy and that’s before you even get to the Bazaar’s main attraction – the food.

The food alone makes this Toronto experience a must for any visitor. You’ll find a mix of eateries featuring delicacies from North and South India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Savour fresh tandoori chicken or rich masala dosai at an authentic “chat house.” And as many traditional meals contain no meat, vegetarians will feel more than satisfied with the range of delicious options.

In July, the area is enlivened by the Festival of South Asia, a two-day extravaganza of music, dance, tasty treats and more. Then in November, hundreds of twinkling tea lights bathe the neighbourhood in a warm, magical glow as Diwali, the Festival of Lights takes over.

No matter what time of year you choose to visit Little India, your senses will be dazzled by the vibrant colours and aromas.